Why I Became A Chicago Immigration Attorney
I’m drawn to immigration law because of the human element. I’m wired in such a way to strive for significant and personal impact. I get this wiring from my parents. I am a first generation American and the son of Holocaust survivors. My father escaped from Auschwitz; my mother was liberated from the same concentration camp. Helping individuals & businesses overcome obstacles when at the mercy of a complex system is what my work is all about and why I strive to be the best Chicago immigration attorney.
Richard Hanus – Chicago Immigration Attorney
Since 1990, Richard Hanus has dedicated his practice to helping unravel the complexities of immigration law for individuals and businesses. Immigration laws continue to change, particularly in today’s environment, with new agencies and new requirements emerging all the time. Whether you are an individual seeking status in the U.S., or are a business looking to employ foreign national workers, Mr. Hanus can help by drawing on his years of expertise and specialized knowledge as an Chicago immigration attorney.
- Immigration & Naturalization Law
- Removal/Deportation Defense
- Naturalization & Citizenship
- Asylum
- Visas
- University of Illinois College of Law, Champaign, Illinois, 1988 J.D.
- Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, 1985 B.S. Major: Communication Studies/Philosophy
- Co-Chair American Immigration Lawyer’s Association (AILA) – Chicago Chapter’s Liaison Committee with DHS/Citizenship and Immigration Services’ Chicago Field Office; Co-Chair of AILA Chicago Chapter’s Liaison Committee with Illinois Secretary of State Office’s Department of Motor Vehicles, Past Co-Chair of Pro Bono/Chicago Volunteer Legal Services/AILA Clinic; Richard Hanus is also a lecturer on immigration law issues and developments for continuing legal/professional education programs presented by American Immigration Law Association, Chicago Bar Association, Chicago Volunteer Legal Services and National Association of Social Workers.
- Decalogue Society, Chicago Member
- Richard Hanus petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to challenge a removal order entered against his client after she was misled by a DMV official into registering to vote and then voting in a federal election. The petition sought clarification of National Voter Registration Act provisions which appear to mandate DMV solicitation of voter registration of even ineligible voters and at the same time forbid officials from discouraging registration of ineligible voters.
- Richard Hanus argued a Petition for Review before the U.S. Court of Appeals, 7th Circuit, seeking to overturn entry of a removal order against his lawful permanent resident client who was improperly solicited and approved to vote by a DMV official pursuant to mandate of the National Voter Registration Act. See Fitzpatrick v. Sessions, 847 F.3d 913 (7th Cir. 2017). National media coverage 1 National media coverage 2
- Richard Hanus successfully argued a Petition for Review before the U.S. Court of Appeals, 7th Circuit, with petitioner’s removal proceedings being halted, and her case for a green card being given new life. (Green card application originally denied and case sent to removal proceedings because client had been lured into registering to vote and voting by DMV officials). See Keathley v. Holder, 696 F.3d 644 (7th Cir. 2012), International media coverage National media coverage 1 National media coverage 2
Our Approach to Immigration Law
We assist individuals and businesses in the U.S. and abroad to achieve their goals in an efficient manner and provide responsive counsel throughout all steps in the process. In providing the highest quality representation in all U.S. immigration related matters, our work as a Chicago immigration attorney strives to serve our clients with creativity, sensitivity and diligence, three qualities that are essential when dealing with immigration law issues. To better serve your personal needs, we speak English, Spanish, Polish, Hebrew, Russian, Tagalog and Lithuanian.
Creativity
We keep current with an ever-changing landscape of statutes, regulations, case law and policy in order to find solutions to the vast array of issues our clients present. With this solid foundation, we focus our efforts toward creatively tapping into this complex bank of information, devising the best approach to a client’s particular set of circumstances.
Sensitivity
Having represented clients in immigration-related matters for more than 25 years, we are sensitive to the type of service an Chicago immigration attorney client needs and have the experience and insight to help clients achieve the result they are seeking. Whether you represent a corporation seeking to staff its newly established U.S. branch with key overseas personnel, or you are an individual seeking to remain united with family members in the U.S., we are familiar with the wide variety of concerns (legal and otherwise) that you face. We as a Chicago immigration attorney office are sensitive to these issues and will exercise judgment that best suits the client’s needs.
Diligence
Monitoring the progress of a client’s case and keeping you informed as to important developments are two key functions of any firm. By diligently carrying out these roles, we help ensure the fastest processing of our clients’ cases while at the same time, heighten awareness and increase confidence in the processes at issue. Our Chicago immigration attorney office handles all aspects of immigration filing and case preparation, including:
- preparing and compiling documentation according to specific USCIS (formerly INS,) Department of Labor and other governmental agency guidelines for the most efficient processing possible,
- providing detailed instructions for clients regarding supporting documentation needed for filings,
- walking through the filing process with all clients, making sure you are well informed at every step,
- offering realistic and accurate time frame estimates for various types of filings and
- handling all interactions with USCIS officers and other government agency personnel.
Richard Hanus In the Media
All Media Mentions
Richard Hanus has been chosen as a 2024 “Super Lawyer” in the field of Immigration Law by Super Lawyer Magazine for attaining the highest level of professional achievement and peer recognition (previously selected in 2007-2008, 2014-2024). Super Lawyer Magazine, a publication of Thomson Reuters, recognizes the top 5% of attorneys in their respective fields with the Super Lawyer award – representing the culmination of a patented, multi phase selection process combining 12 indicators of achievement, peer evaluation and independent research data.
Richard Hanus was quoted in Cheryl Miller’s Law.com article “Will Passage of Cannabis Research Bill Open Door to Lame Duck Marijuana Legislation” on November 17, 2022, covering the huge conflicts the growth of our legal cannabis industry presents for our immigration laws.
Richard Hanus appeared on Fox 32 Chicago news on September 1, 2022 to discuss the legal implications asylum applicants from Venezuela and elsewhere face after being bussed by border states governors to Chicago.
Richard Hanus role as a Chicago immigration attorney in a precedent setting case – including up to the U.S. Court of Appeals, 7th Circuit is depicted in the new feature film, The Courtroom – with Linda Powell in the role of Richard Hanus. The film is an official selection of the 2022, Tribeca Film Festival and is set to premiere on June 16, 2022
Richard Hanus’ representation of clients fighting deportation proceedings was featured in the nationally released article by Sophia Tareen “Voter Registration Error Risks Deportation for Immigrants” published by Associated Press (February 10, 2020).
Richard Hanus’s role litigating his client’s deportation defense up through the U.S. Court of Appeals, 7th Circuit and as depicted in the off Broadway play, The Courtroom, was featured on Good Day Chicago, Fox 32, on November 7, 2019. See also the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin’s November 4, 2019 coverage, AllArts.org November 19, 2019 coverage, Chicago Lawyer’s December 2019 coverage, along with the WJBC radio interview with Richard Hanus and his clients.
Richard Hanus is featured in Politico for his role as a Chicago immigration attorney successfully fighting his client’s deportation case up through the U.S. Court of Appeals, 7th Circuit, a case that became the basis of the current Off Broadway stage production, The Courtroom. (October 16, 2019)
- Richard Hanus quoted in an article by Sam Thielman, “Why Was Bill Browder Blocked From Flying to the U.S.? It’s Complicated” featuring Hanus’ discussion of the ESTA Visa Waiver program and the type of irregularities leading to the revocation of a foreign national’s ESTA travel privileges, published by Talking Points Memo (October 23, 2017).
Richard Hanus featured in NBC Nightly News report (August 5, 2017) “Grandmother Deported for Voter Fraud Leaves the U.S. in Tears” featuring Hanus’ client and her fight to remain in the U.S., including an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Richard Hanus featured in NBC Nightly News report (April 15, 2017) and quoted in a Reuters article (February 13, 2017), “Peruvian Woman Can Be Deported from U.S. for Voting Illegally: Court” featuring Hanus’ client and her battle to remain in the U.S. after being lured into registering to vote and voting by DMV officials in Illinois. The story was also featured on Telemundo and NBC 5 Chicago News.
Richard Hanus is featured in the March, 2016 Chicago Volunteer Legal Services newsletter, for providing successful pro bono counsel on behalf of Client F., a long time U.S. resident who finally achieved her dream of becoming a U.S. citizen after a 9 year legal battle and a recent victory on appeal.
Richard Hanus quoted in an article by Marwa Eltagouri, “Immigrant Who Wrongly Voted Wins Right To Stay,” featuring Hanus’ client and her final victory after a 7 year legal battle to obtain U.S. resident status (“Green Card”) and fight off deportation, published by the Chicago Tribune (July 5, 2014).
Richard Hanus quoted in an article by Maria Zamudio “Illegal Voting Case Puts Family’s Future in Limbo”, featuring Hanus’ client and her federal court fight to remain in the U.S., published by Chicago Reporter (February 21, 2014)
Richard Hanus recognized in Philippines Daily Mirror article by Joseph Lariosa “EOIR Cites Filiipina’s Voting Case as Precedent” as attorney for prevailing party in fight with U.S. Department of Homeland Security and for his role in establishing legal precedent for defense of removal proceedings (October 12, 2013).
Richard Hanus authored a Wall Street Journal “Cross Country” Op Ed piece entitled, “How This Immigration Lawyer Learned to Love Voter I.D.” Published by the Wall Street Journal on May 4-5, 2013.
Richard Hanus urges Congress to repeal Immigration and Nationality Act Section 212(a)(9)(B) – November 27, 2010.
Richard Hanus quoted in article by Shannon Mehner and Brianna McClane “Exploited Immigrants, Unaware of Labor Laws, Afraid to Fight Mistreatment”, published by Medill News Service (May 20, 2010).
Richard Hanus quoted in article by Lori Bernardino, “Undocumented and unafraid? Opposite is true for some Filipino immigrants.” published by Medill News Service (April 14, 2010).
Sponsor of National Immigrant Justice Center’s 2008 Midwest Light of Human Rights Award
Richard Hanus quoted in article and television feature by Nishi Gupta, “Immigrant May Lose Chance at Citizenship” published by WHOI-19 Television, Peoria, IL (December 6, 2007).
Richard Hanus quoted in article by Antonio Olivo, “Citizenship in Sight, But Then She Voted,” published by Chicago Tribune (December 3, 2007). The story also appeared on GMA News.
Richard Hanus quoted in “The Politics of Immigration: Questions and Answers”, a book authored by Jane Guskin and David Wilson and published by NYU Press (April 1, 2007).
Richard Hanus quoted in radio feature “Why Didn’t She Win the Car?”, broadcast on St. Louis’ KMOX 1120 on January 26, 2007.
Richard Hanus quoted in article and television feature by Courtney Brennan, “The Aftermath of the Immigration Sweep” aired and published by WQAD Television, Quad Cities/Moline, IL (November 16, 2006).
Richard Hanus was interviewed for an episode of FRONTLINE/WORLD which aired on PBS Click to Play
Richard Hanus quoted in article by Jennifer Koons, “Reaction: Sanchez-Llamas v. Oregon/Bustillo v. Johnson,” published by Medill News Service (July 6, 2006).
Richard Hanus quoted in Associated Press article by Alan Scher Zagier, “Mid-Missourians join fight over deportation,” published by Columbia Daily Tribune. (October 2, 2005).
Richard Hanus quoted in “Foreign Workers: Everything You Need to Know about Employing Foreign Workers”, a book authored by Joyce B. Gentry and Kathleen Kennedy-Luczak and published by CCH Incorporated (2004).
Original insights & analysis of current immigration law issues by R. Hanus, Immigration Law Columnist: Richard’s Blog, 1999 – present
Lectures, Speaking Engagements and Community Involvement
Richard Hanus delivered a Continuing Legal Education Seminar on April 16, 2024, titled “Sanctuary Cities and Our Borders: A Discussion with Richard Hanus” at the Chicago Bar Association in Chicago, Illinois. The event was presented in collaboration with the Chicago Bar Association and Chicago’s Decalogue Society of Lawyers.
Richard Hanus presented a Continuing Legal Education Seminar for Chicago’s Decalogue Society of Lawyers on November 12, 2023 on “The Courtroom”, the Tribeca selected feature film depicting Richard Hanus’ advocacy on behalf of Elizabeth Keathley and her dramatic federal court fight against deportation.
Richard Hanus led a panel discussion for the American Immigration Lawyers Association’s Annual National Conference, on June 24, 2023 and presented on the topic of “Avoiding Surprises at Immigration Interviews: Prior Orders, Convictions and Other Secrets”
Richard Hanus presented as part of a panel discussion for the American Immigration Lawyers Association, Chicago Chapter’s Fall Conference on October 14, 2022 on the topic of “N-400 & Citizenship Minefields: Identifying, Counseling & Responding to Naturalization and Citizenship Issues.”
Richard Hanus conducted a Continuing Legal Education Seminar for American Immigration Lawyers Association’s Chicago Chapter New Members Division on October 10, 2022 on “Common Red Flag Issues in the Naturalization Process.”
- Richard Hanus was presented the “Minsky Beacon of Light Award” by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) Chicago Chapter on June 14, 2022 for his dedication to advancing the field of immigration law as an outstanding advocate, mentor and immigration law educator.
Richard Hanus presented a Continuing Legal Education seminar on April 22, 2022 as part of a panel discussion for the American Immigration Lawyers Association/Philadelphia’s 2022 Spring Virtual Conference on the topic “Advanced Naturalization Issues – Dangers Presented By False Claims to U.S. Citizenship/Voter Registration/Voting.”
Richard Hanus presented a Continuing Legal Education Seminar, sharing his insights with fellow lawyers and law students, at Chicago Kent Law School on December 1, 2021 on the topic “U.S. Immigration and Asylum Law – Beyond the Headlines and Politics”.
Richard Hanus participated in a virtual, panel presentation for the American Immigration Lawyers Association, Chicago Spring Family and Litigation Conference on the topic of “USCIS Updates/Strategies” on March 19, 2021.
Richard Hanus conducted a virtual Continuing Legal Education Seminar and shared his expertise with fellow lawyers at the Chicago Bar Association on February 18, 2021 on the topic: “The Future of the Immigration Court: Is EOIR Trying to Go Full Remote Regardless of the Pandemic?”
- Richard Hanus appeared on an October 18, 2020 Viewpoints Radio Podcast to discuss the challenges our nation’s immigration system faces, including our population of 12 million undocumented foreign nationals and the viability of a “path to legalization” legislative solution.
Richard Hanus appeared on the popular Scott Becker Business Leadership Podcast on June 30, 2020 discussing The Courtroom, the Off Broadway play that is a verbatim stage dramatization of Richard’s defense of a real life deportation case and the subject of Keathley v. Holder, 696 F.3d 644 (7th Cir. 2012).
Richard Hanus conducted a Continuing Legal Education Seminar and shared his expertise with fellow lawyers at the Chicago Bar Association on May 6, 2020 on the topic: “What Every Family Law Attorney Should Know About Immigration Law.”
Richard Hanus conducted a Continuing Legal Education Seminar and shared his expertise with fellow lawyers at the Chicago Bar Association on April 7, 2020 on the topic: “What Every Workers Compensation Lawyer Should Know About Immigration Law.”
Richard Hanus recently appeared on a Viewpoints Radio Podcast to discuss immigration law and the dangers motor voter laws pose for immigrants, including the case of Elizabeth Keathley and her successful deportation fight up to the federal U.S. Court of Appeals.
Richard Hanus appeared on the popular Scott Becker Business Leadership Podcast, on August 16, 2019 discussing a myriad of topics such as practicing immigration law in the Trump era, starting his own law firm and deciding on a professional path.
Richard Hanus discussed current U.S. immigration law issues and policies during a panel discussion at the New York City Bar Association following the May 6, 2019 performance of The Courtroom – sponsored by the Forum on Law, Culture and Society as part of their Law and Conversation program series.
Richard Hanus‘ successful representation of Elizabeth Keathley in defense of removal proceedings was portrayed in the 2019 Off Broadway stage production of The Courtroom. The production featured a cast which included Tony award winners and nominees and a verbatim script of proceedings before the Chicago Immigration Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals, 7th Circuit.
Richard Hanus conducted a Continuing Legal Education Seminar and shared his expertise with fellow lawyers at Decalogue Society on March 13, 2019 on the topic: “What Every Family Lawyer Should Know About Immigration Law.”
Richard Hanus participated in a panel presentation for the American Immigration Lawyers Association, Chicago Chapter’s Fall 2018 Family & Litigation Conference: Strategies & Best Practices in an Enforcement-Centered Era and on the topic of “District Office Hot Topics” on November 9, 2018 at the Chicago Bar Association, Chicago, Illinois.
Richard Hanus presented a Continuing Legal Education lecture, “Criminal & Traffic Charges: Immigration Consequences for Non-US Citizens, Including Undocumented Defendants” on September 27, 2018 for the Northwest Suburban Bar Association, Arlington Heights, Illinois
Richard Hanus shared his expertise leading a panel of fellow immigration lawyers on March 13, 2017 on the topic of “Advanced Naturalization”, at the 2017 American Immigration Lawyers Association Annual Midwest Regional Conference at the Radisson Blue Aqua Hotel, Chicago, Illinois
Richard Hanus presented a Continuing Legal Education lecture and shared his expertise as part of a panel on “Best Practices in Consular Advocacy” at the Chicago Bar Association on January 19, 2017.
Richard Hanus shared his expertise leading a panel of fellow immigration lawyers on March 14, 2016 on the topic of federal court immigration litigation, “You’re Not as Far from U.S. District Court as you May Think – A Bird’s Eye View of the Options and Strategies”, at the 2016 American Immigration Lawyers Association Annual Midwest Regional Conference at the Radisson Blue Aqua Hotel, Chicago, Illinois
Richard Hanus presented a Continuing Legal Education lecture and shared his expertise on “Current Trends in Naturalization” with fellow immigration lawyers at the Chicago Chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association on January 11, 2016
Richard Hanus shared his expertise on a panel of fellow immigration lawyers on the topic of “Avoiding Lawsuits: Hot Topics in Business Immigration Ethics” for American Immigration Lawyers Association’s Chicago Chapter’s 2015 Fall Business Immigration, Continuing Legal Education Seminar, “The Business of Doing Business Immigration”, in Chicago, Illinois on October 16, 2015.
Richard Hanus, along with a panel of fellow experts, conducted a Continuing Legal Education Seminar on the topic of Waivers of Inadmissability – Fraud and Misrepresentation at the Chicago Bar Association on January 13, 2015.
Richard Hanus conducted a Continuing Legal Education Seminar and shared his expertise with fellow lawyers at the DuPage County (IL ) Bar Association on November 21, 2014 on the topic – “What Every Criminal Lawyer Should Know About Immigration Law”.
Richard Hanus conducted a Continuing Legal Education Seminar and shared his expertise with fellow lawyers at the Chicago Bar Association (on behalf of the Decalogue Society) on May 7, 2014 on the topic: “What Every Criminal Lawyer Should Know About Immigration Law.”
Richard Hanus shared his expertise on a panel of fellow immigration lawyers on the topic of “Child Status Protection Act – How It Can Help Keep Immigrant Families Intact” for the Chicago Bar Association’s “Meeting the Needs of Children Under the Immigration Laws” Continuing Legal Education Seminar on January 14, 2014.
Richard Hanus shared his expertise on a panel of fellow immigration lawyers on the topic of “Ethics, Pro Bono and Immigration Workshops” for American Immigration Lawyers Association’s Chicago Chapter’s 2013 Ethics/Client Relations in Immigration, Continuing Legal Education Seminar at the Chicago Bar Association on May 17, 2013
Richard Hanus shared his expertise with 3rd year law students at the University of Illinois College of Law as a guest lecturer on the topic of Small Firm Practice on March 29, 2013.
Richard Hanus shared his expertise leading a panel of fellow immigration lawyers on the topic of Marriage Based Potpourri, including U visas, False Claims to Citizenship and Unlawful Voting/Registration at American Immigration Lawyers Association’s 2013 Midwest Regional Conference at Chicago Hilton and Towers on March 15, 2013
Richard Hanus conducted a Continuing Legal Education Seminar and shared his expertise with fellow lawyers at the Chicago Bar Association (on behalf of the Decalogue Society) on June 6, 2012 on the topic: “What Every Divorce Lawyer Should Know About Immigration Law.”
Richard Hanus shared his expertise leading a panel of fellow immigration lawyers on the topic of Fraud Detection/National Security and its Impact on Issuance of Immigration Benefits at American Immigration Lawyers Association’s 2012 Midwest Regional Conference at Chicago Hilton and Towers on March 16, 2012.
Richard Hanus shared his expertise with fellow immigration lawyers, as part of an interagency governmental panel discussion at American Immigration Lawyers Association’s 2011 Annual Midwest Regional Conference at Chicago Hilton and Towers on March 28, 2011 featuring Chicago Field Office Directors for U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
Richard Hanus shared his expertise on a panel conducting a Continuing Legal Education Seminar at the Chicago Bar Association on January 13, 2011 on the topic of Representation of Victims of Crimes and Domestic Violence in the Immigration Law Context.
Richard Hanus led a panel discussion and shared his expertise with fellow immigration law attorneys at the American Immigration Lawyers Association’s Annual Midwest Regional Conference in Chicago, Illinois on the topic, “Affidavits of Support, Government Benefits, Tax Issues and Social Security Benefits” on April 9, 2010.
Richard Hanus shared his expertise in presenting a continuing legal education seminar on “Common Pitfalls Encountered by Immigration and Criminal Law Practitioners When Representing Non-U.S. Citizens” to fellow attorneys at the Chicago Bar Association on February 4, 2010.
Richard Hanus shared his expertise in immigration law in presenting a Continuing Legal Education seminar, “Immigration Issues in Family Law“, to fellow attorneys at Chicago Volunteer Legal Services headquarters on January 27, 2009.
Richard Hanus shared his expertise in defense strategies for deportation/removal proceedings in presenting a seminar, “Removal for Experts“, to fellow attorneys across the U.S. via nationwide teleconference on March 19, 2009.
ARK Chicago (social service agency in Chicago) Richard Hanus Board of Directors President, 2004 – present; Chairman of the Board, 2011 – 2012; Co-President, 2009 – 2011; Vice President, 2007 – 2009.
Chicago Volunteer Legal Services Distinguished Service Award Recipient, 2006 & 1990; Volunteer Attorney 1989- Present; Immigration Law (AILA) Clinic Chair 1998-2004
Volunteering
- Chicago Volunteer Legal Services
Jan 1992 – Present
Provide Pro Bono legal services to indigent clientele, with a focus on Immigration Law Matters. Immigration Law Clinic Chair for 10+ years, including recruiting and mentoring volunteer attorneys. Past President of Board of Directors, Board of Directors and Pro Bono Counsel
The ARK
Feb 2008 – Present
Member Board of Directors, Past President – Board of Directors, Pro Bono Counsel to agency clienteleCo-Chair of DHS/CIS Chicago Field Office, Dist. Dir. Liaison Committee
American Immigration Lawyers Association
Jun 2019 – Oct 2022
Leadership role on liaison committee of immigration lawyers with DHS/CIS Chicago Field Office for the purpose of enhancing impact of legal advocacy and efficient communications to and from DHS/CIS Chicago regarding ongoing operational concerns and solutionsCo-Chair , State of Illinois – Secretary of State/DMV Liaison Committee
American Immigration Lawyers Association
Jun 2017 – Oct 2022
Committee member and formerly committee co-chair; liaison with State of Illinois’ Office of the Secretary of State/DMV regarding issues impacting immigrant community in the context of drivers license and state identification issuanceLiaison Committee Member – Chicago Immigration Court/DOJ-Executive Office of Immigration Review
American Immigration Lawyers Association
Sept 2022 – Present
Member of AILA Chicago’s Executive Office of Immigration Review liaison committee for the purpose of advocating for a fair and just system for individuals fighting deportation proceedings